Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) in Fort Myers & Surrounding Communities

Thrive Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) serves children with complex medical needs throughout Southwest Florida, including Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Lehigh Acres, North Fort Myers, and San Carlos Park. Because transportation is available through Medicaid transportation brokers, many children within these areas can safely access daily skilled nursing and developmental support at our center.

Our PPEC program provides an integrated environment where children receive nursing care, therapies, and social-developmental activities in a single coordinated setting. By supporting families across these surrounding communities, we help reduce travel demands and ensure that children have consistent access to the care prescribed by their physicians.

Our team is composed of experienced nurses and certified nursing assistants who specialize in caring for medically fragile children. Every team member is trained to meet complex clinical needs while also nurturing each child’s overall well-being. With a deep understanding of pediatric care, our staff works together to create an environment where safety, comfort, and progress come first.

Thrive Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) serves children from birth to 21 years old who have ongoing medical needs that require skilled nursing, monitoring, and coordinated therapies during the day. Many of the children we serve are medically fragile or technology-dependent and benefit from a nurturing, structured environment rather than repeated hospitalizations or traditional daycare.

• Gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes), jejunostomy tubes, and other enteral feeding tubes
• Tracheostomy care, ventilator support, and ongoing airway management
• Oxygen therapy, apnea monitors, and pulse oximetry monitoring
• Central lines, ports, and IV therapies requiring skilled nursing oversight
• Seizure disorders and other neurologic or genetic conditions
• Ostomies and complex gastrointestinal or nutritional needs
• Medically fragile infants with complications related to prematurity or surgery
• Children who require frequent medications, respiratory treatments, or close nursing assessment throughout the day

Every child’s plan of care is prescribed by their physician and reviewed regularly to ensure that PPEC services remain medically necessary and aligned with family goals. For more details about eligibility, coverage, and what to expect, visit our Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) FAQ.

Children in PPEC deserve opportunities to connect, play, and interact with peers regardless of their medical needs. Our program incorporates structured socialization and rehabilitation activities that encourage interaction, communication, and confidence. These experiences support developmental growth while helping children build meaningful relationships in a setting tailored to their safety and abilities.

Supporting the family is equally important. We provide guidance, advocacy, and education to help parents navigate the many responsibilities that extend beyond medical care. Families are equipped with tools, information, and personalized support so they feel confident and empowered in their caregiving journey. Our goal is to walk alongside parents every step of the way and connect them with community resources that complement PPEC services.

To reduce the stress of coordinating appointments and traveling to various providers, we offer on-site therapies—including physical, occupational, speech, respiratory, and feeding therapy—directly within our center. This allows children to receive consistent, high-quality treatment in a familiar environment, minimizing disruption to their day and maximizing the continuity of care.

For families, on-site therapy means fewer weekly appointments, reduced transportation challenges, and more time to focus on daily life. Therapists collaborate closely with nursing staff to integrate therapeutic goals into each child’s routine, ensuring their progress is supported throughout the entire day—not just during formal therapy sessions. This integration is a hallmark of the PPEC model of care.

Every child’s journey is unique, and our mission is to help them reach their fullest potential. Whether the goal is greater independence, improved strength, or enhanced communication, we work with families and providers to build a path forward. Progress may look different for every child, but we celebrate every milestone along the way.

Ultimately, our vision is to prepare each child for a world where they can thrive—equipped with the confidence, skills, and support they need. Through compassionate care, integrated therapies, and developmental enrichment in a PPEC environment, we strive to open new possibilities for the children and families we serve in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Lehigh Acres, North Fort Myers, San Carlos Park, and surrounding communities.